New Orleans inspired event coming to Ottawa Street (con't)

Musicians will perform among the crowds walking up and down the street.

And don’t forget the New Orleans-style food, of which there will be an abundance.

And by all means dress for the occasion.

“It will be a nice little street party with some authentic New Orleans-style food and drink and music,” coordinator Ian France said.

“And we’re encouraging those who attend to dress up in their craziest New Orleans-style costumes, beads, makeup, whatever they like.”

France organized last year’s Amherstburg’s downtown Mardi Gras street festival, now taken over by the town’s chamber of commerce and scheduled for July.

“It was received incredibly well in Amherstburg,” he said.

France said retailers are being encouraged to “light up their storefronts and really give you that cool backdrop for the people while they’re in attendance.”

The festival will stretch along there blocks from Pierre to Gladstone where a special occasion alcohol permit will allow people to consume beverages while they walk along the street.

“Bars in the footprint will be encouraged to have extended patios and you’re going to be able to walk freely within that licensed area with alcohol,” France said.

The event, sponsored by the business improvement association, will also have designated service tents where the public can buy tokens and purchase drinks - “alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks within the footprint right on the street,” France said.

Food will be of typical New Orleans variety including jumbalaya and crab cakes.

“We’re working right now with some local culinary people and we’ll be putting together probably just a five, six item menu,” he said.

And at least one Mardi Gras type band is expected to play.

“We’re working right now to get a marching band that has travelled to New Orleans and they do participate in their annual parade,” he said.

Other music will feature southern blues, rock, jazz and funk along with busker-style street performers.

Saturday the atmosphere will change somewhat.

While the night times will be for adults Saturday afternoon will have free admission and be family-oriented between 11 am and 4 pm.

Admissions will be $10 each evening.

Money raised will go for improvements to the local business district.

WindsorOntarioNews.com

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